The Bellarine Peninsula - Corio Bay LCHA is one of four pilot studies investigating coastal hazards and climate change implications along the Victorian coast. The other studies are:

These pilot studies will be used in the development of mechanisms to facilitate planning for coastal climate change adaptation (DPCD, 2012). Through consultation with DSE (now DELWP), councils and key stakeholders, tailored local responses to sea-level rise will be developed to aid future planning and decision-making.

The Bellarine Peninsula - Corio Bay LCHA study builds on the previous understandings of coastal hazards within the study area, as well as providing information to build capacity to deal with future issues.

The study seeks to address coastal, estuarine/riverine and climate-change challenges by defining the possible magnitude and extent of the hazards in a considered and robust manner. The aim is to advise local land managers regarding their sections of the coast, and provide a basis to identify additional studies to be carried out in the future. This will ensure councils and land managers are prepared for future hazard and climate-change related challenges, and to inform strategic planning and decision making.

It is intended that this study will also inform future risk assessments in the determination of priority coastal areas, guiding the prioritisation and implementation of adaptation responses. This will aid in minimising the effects of coastal inundation and climate change on people, property and the environment.